Italy & Croatia Luxury Cruise
Jul 02, 2025 - Jul 10, 2025- Venice
- Rovinj
- Split
- Dubrovnik
- Kotor
- Giardini Naxos
- Sorrento
- Rome
The Best of Italy and Croatia
Explore the shores of Italy and Croatia and discover the charm of Venice, the magnificence of Rome, and the vast beauty of Croatia and the Dalmatian Coast. Discover the Mediterranean’s most charming and historic destinations on this incomparable 8-night voyage aboard the ms Wind Surf, a luxurious 342-passenger ship.
Activity Level
This trip requires good to moderate mobility, as many of the ports of call offer excursions with a lot of walking over uneven surfaces such as cobblestone, rocky paths, up and down hills and stairs. There are elevators on board the ship. In anchored ports of call, you will be required to go up and down stairs to reach the tender boat platform to disembark the ship. If you have limited mobility, you are required to travel with someone who can assist you.
What's Included
- Accommodations for 9 days/8 nights on the elegant Windstar Wind Surf
- All meals onboard the ship’s restaurants featuring gourmet fare, including 24-hour room service
- Complimentary non-alcohol soft beverages including bottled water and specialty coffees
- Champagne welcome reception
- Olivia’s signature entertainment and programming
- Personalized Team Olivia assistance throughout
- What's Not Included
- Airfare to Venice and from Rome / Airport transfers
- Specialty restaurants
- Alcoholic beverages
- Spa and salon services
- Internet/phone/fax
- Ship's photos
- Medical attention
- Shore excursions
- Travel insurance & personal incidentals
Itinerary
- Day 1Venice, ItalydockWednesday, Jul 2, 20256pm
No other sea approach in the Adriatic raises goose bumps like Venice, a small ship exclusive where the entire city and its lagoon are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We begin our cruise in the enchanting city of Venice, Italy. In this intimate setting, gondoliers serenade, delicate bridges lead to winding cobblestone streets and glorious Renaissance architecture form a fairy-tale backdrop. Join our pre-cruise vacation stretcher and take in all the must-see sights.
We will offer pre-cruise vacation stretchers in Venice, Italy. More information will be available approximately 11 months prior to the trip.
- Day 2Rovinj, CroatiaanchorThursday, Jul 3, 20258am-4pm
The lovely fishing port of Rovinj on the west coast of the Istrian peninsula bordered on three sides by the Adriatic Sea. You can tour the maze of cobblestone streets that lead to the hilltop St. Euphemia Cathedral with its towering steeple dominating the skyline. Old Town Rovinj is a delightful tangle of medieval streets and twisting stairways. Seek out the Bronze Age ruins of Monkodonja, the hidden beaches or the breathtaking natural beauty of the 6-mile-long Lim Fjord.
Sample Excursions: Experience Istria, Tour of Pula & Olive Oil Tasting, Rib Boat Sea Adventure, Seaside Resort of Porec & Wine Tasting.
- Day 3Split, CroatiadockFriday, Jul 4, 20258am -5pm
Split welcomes you with open arms, Mediterranean style, and a bustling harbor lined with busy cafés. Beyond, looms stately Diocletian’s Palace a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the center of town. Don't miss the seafood market, located on Marmontova near the shoreline. The vegetable market is a fantastic lunch alternative. Be sure to visit any of the city's pekara, or bakeries for some pastries and baked goods. If you’re longing for a quiet respite, head for the western end of town for an easy stroll through a verdant mountain park. Or take an optional tour to Trogir, another UNESCO site.
Sample Excursions: Cooking class & Dalmatian Delicacies, Flavors & Aromas of Dalmatia, Krka National Park Highlights, Rafting the Cetina River, Sea Safari of Trogir.
- Day 4Dubrovnik, CroatiaanchorSaturday, Jul 5, 20258am-10pm
While larger ships must pass by, we anchor right beyond the famous walled city so you can admire its beauty with every glance. Often referred to as “the Pearl of the Adriatic”, tender ashore and step right into Old Town, a UNESCO site where no cars are allowed, just eons of history. Capture the exhilarating views on your camera—and in your memory. End your day at the Buza Café (if you can find it) watching bold divers leap off the cliffs into the crystalline sea.
Sample Excursions: Lunch at a Local Family Village Home, Game of Thrones, Historic Dubrovnik & Wine Tasting, Kayaking the City Walls & Lokrum Island, Best of Dubrovnik, Adriatic Sea Adventure.
- Day 5Kotor, MontenegroanchorSunday, Jul 6, 2025
This is one of Montenegro’s most beautiful bays, and the approach offers one breathtaking fjord-like view after another. Just when you’ve reached your fill of blues and greens, the bright red rooftops of the medieval Old Town come into view. The entire area has been proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The charming streets of Old Town remain car free, filled with 12th century Baroque palaces and Romanesque churches. For a fresh perspective, climb to the fortress on the hill for a breathtaking vista.
Sample Excursions: Kotor Bay & Baroque Village of Perast, Blue Cave Cruise with Lunch at Fishermans Village, Lovcen Hills by ATV Safari, Highlights of Montenegro, Kotor on Foot, Taste of Montenegro.
- Day 6At SeaMonday, Jul 7, 2025
- Day 7Giardini Naxos, ItalyanchorTuesday, Jul 8, 20258am-2pm
Today you’ll discover one of Sicily’s jewels, the charming village of Giardini Naxos, nestled in one of the world’s most beautiful bays. An optional excursion to the popular hillside town of Taormina will be a highlight of your voyage—from the stunning setting of the iconic Greek Theater to the sparkling beaches along the Ionian Sea. Take a more adventurous tack and explore the UNESCO site of Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano.
Sample Excursions: Castelmola & Taormina, Wine Tasting at the Gambino Winery, In the Godfathers Steps, Taormina & The Blue Grotto by Boat.
- Day 8Sorrento, ItalyanchorWednesday, Jul 9, 20258am-3pm
UNESCO World Heritage Sites abound in Sorrento. Optional tours will take you to the archaeological areas of Pompeii and Torre Annunziata, or the 4th century B.C. city of Herculaneum. Perhaps your choice will be a boat ride to Positano, the legendary home of the Sirens. Perched on a terrace on the spectacular Amalfi Coast, Sorrento offers exceptional views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.
Sample Excursions: Positano & Amalfi, Boat Tour to Positano, Sorrento Discovery & Tasting, Sorrento Gourmet, Journey to Pompeii.
- Day 9Rome, ItalyCivitavecchia, dockThursday, Jul 10, 20257am
In this enchanting city the past and present intersect in perfect harmony. Casually intermingled among ancient ruins and majestic cathedrals are the trappings of a modern metropolis: Skyscrapers, cafés, boutiques selling designer footwear. But of course what you seek first in the heart of Rome is its breathtaking history. A good place to begin is the Vatican, with its Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Works by Bernini, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, and Raphael are just a few of those on display, any one of which is worth hours of contemplation. Then the ancient ruins—Colosseum, Forum, Circus Maximus. And of course the Trevi Fountain for the obligatory coins promising your return to the Eternal City.
We will offer post-cruise vacation stretchers in Rome, Italy. More information will be available approximately 11 months prior to the trip.
*Itinerary is subject to change.
Entertainment
We are bringing you a star-studded lineup. Stay tuned for more details.
Your Ship: The Windstar Wind Surf
With only 342 guests, you begin to feel like Windstar’s Wind Surf is your own private yacht almost as soon as you step aboard. The world’s largest sailing ship draws admiring glances as she glides majestically into port with her tall sails billowing. The Wind Surf underwent a significant renovation of public spaces, suites, and staterooms, including an expanded lounge for entertainment.
Total Occupancy: 342
- Ship Amenities
- Amphora, Veranda, Candles, Stella Bistro Restaurants serving locally inspired dishes
- Lounge Bar, Yacht Club Café, Compass Rose Bar, Pool Bar
- World Spa with a variety of spa treatments (extra charge)
- Wide open teak decks
- Captain’s Bridge
- 24-hour room service
- Signature onboard BBQ
- Nightly port talks
- Star Boutique
- Watersports Platform (based on port availability)
- Complimentary yoga classes and gym use
- Room & Suite Amenities
- Retreat to your gracious stateroom or suite with rich tufted headboards, soft seascape colors, beautiful new upholstery, Egyptian cotton linens and L’Occitane bath products.
- Waffle weave robe and slippers
- Flat Screen TV with complimentary movies on demand
- Fully stocked mini bar/refrigerator (alcoholic beverages charged on consumption)
- Safe
- Direct dial phone
- Wifi (internet cards can be purchased at reception)
- Fresh fruit
- Granite vanity with magnifying mirror
- Walk-in closet and ample drawer space
- Bathroom with granite countertop, full-size tub, and shower
- Complimentary shoe polishing service
- In-room filtered water
- 110/220 outlets
Pricing
EARLY-BIRD PRICE EXPIRES 8/30/2025
Prices shown reflect all current discounts. Prices are per person (PP) based on double occupancy. Pricing does not include airfare, insurance, fuel surcharge, or nondiscountable amount (NDA). Per-person NDA of $599 (subject to change) covers taxes, fees, and gratuities.
- StateroomFrom $5,199 per personStylish comfort and ocean views welcome you in 188 square feet of beautifully designed comfort. Your queen bed (which can be separate into twins) is swathed in luxurious Egyptian cotton linens. Enjoy an invigorating massage shower with soothing L'Occitane bath products, TV with DVD player, waffle-weave robe and slippers, fresh fruit bowl, safe, fully stocked mini bar, hair dryers, and 110/220 outlets.Book Now
- StateroomFrom $5,399 per personStylish comfort and ocean views welcome you in 188 square feet of beautifully designed comfort. Your queen bed (which can be separate into twins) is swathed in luxurious Egyptian cotton linens. Enjoy an invigorating massage shower with soothing L'Occitane bath products, TV with DVD player, waffle-weave robe and slippers, fresh fruit bowl, safe, fully stocked mini bar, hair dryers, and 110/220 outlets.Book Now
- StateroomFrom $5,599 per personStylish comfort and ocean views welcome you in 188 square feet of beautifully designed comfort. Your queen bed (which can be separate into twins) is swathed in luxurious Egyptian cotton linens. Enjoy an invigorating massage shower with soothing L'Occitane bath products, TV with DVD player, waffle-weave robe and slippers, fresh fruit bowl, safe, fully stocked mini bar, hair dryers, and 110/220 outlets.Book Now
- StateroomFrom $5,999 per personStylish comfort and ocean views welcome you in 188 square feet of beautifully designed comfort. Your queen bed (which can be separate into twins) is swathed in luxurious Egyptian cotton linens. Enjoy an invigorating massage shower with soothing L'Occitane bath products, TV with DVD player, waffle-weave robe and slippers, fresh fruit bowl, safe, fully stocked mini bar, hair dryers, and 110/220 outlets.Book Now
- SuiteFrom $7,299 per personWith 376 square fee, you'll find the perfect space for time together and you'll even enjoy two full separate bathrooms. Enjoy an invigorating massage shower with soothing L'Occitane bath products, two flat-screen TVs with DVD players, waffle-weave robe and slippers, fresh fruit bowl, safe, fully stocked mini bar, hair dryers, 110/220 outlets, plus a beautiful sitting area. Book Now
- Officer's Suite ForwardFrom $8,299 per personFor the ultimate in nautical experiences, reserve the new Officer's Suite located close to the Bridge. Enjoy 242 square feet of comfort, queen bed with luxurious Egyptian cotton linens, invigorating massage shower with soothing L'Occitane bath products, TV with DVD player, waffle-weave robe and slippers, fresh fruit bowl, safe, fully stocked mini bar, hair dryers, and 110/220 outlets. Book Now
- Bridge Suite MidshipFrom $8,599 per personThe ultimate in space and style surrounds you in 495 square feet of pure indulgence. Separate bedroom and living room with an in-suite dining area is an invitation to relaxation. Expansive bathroom features a whirlpool spa tube and massage shower. Enjoy soothing L'Occitane bath products, flat-screen TV with DVD player, waffle-weave robe and slippers, fresh fruit bowl, safe, fully stocked mini bar, hair dryers and 110/220 outlets.Book Now
Payment Plans
Two payment plan options are available when booking online or through a Travel Consultant:
1. Olivia Interest Free Payment Plans: Olivia payment plans must be paid in full six months or 180 days before your trip. If a reservation is made at the six-month mark or less, payment in full will be required unless otherwise noted.
2. Flex Pay Loans: Need to extend your payments over more time? Apply for a Flex Pay loan!
How To Book
You can book online at any time or speak to a Travel Consultant, Monday - Friday: 8:30am-5:30pm PT.
U.S.A.: 800.631.6277 | INT'L: 415.962.5700 | Email: [email protected]
Please note that the following must be booked with an Olivia Travel Consultant by phone: Solo Room Shares; Group Travel Discounts; Sisters Travel Discounts; Military Discounts; Vacation Stretchers; Travel Insurance Transfers; ADA Rooms/Cabins; Reservations intended as a surprise gift.
Vacation Stretchers
All packages come complete with our custom schedule of tours, which are sure to show you the best of what Venice and Rome have to offer all in the company of other Olivians!
Pre-Cruise Vacation Stretcher: Venice
Join us in Venice, Italy's enchanting "City of Water," where over 118 islands are connected by canals and bridges instead of roads. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a romantic blend of Renaissance and Gothic palaces, highlighted by the Grand Canal and filled with cultural and artisanal treasures. At its heart lies Piazza San Marco, home to the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica and the Campanile Bell Tower, which offers breathtaking views over red-tiled rooftops. Wander Venice’s historic streets to uncover charming shops and galleries that showcase the city’s artistic soul. Choose one of our pre-cruise Vacation Stretchers—either 3-nights at the Splendid Venice - Starhotels Collezione or 2-nights at Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal.
Post-Cruise Vacation Stretcher: Rome
Rome, Italy’s Eternal City, pulses with nearly 3,000 years of captivating history, art, and culture. From the iconic Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps to the awe-inspiring Pantheon, every corner reveals relics of its powerful empire. Within Rome lies Vatican City, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the heart of the Catholic Church, housing Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Wandering through Rome’s opulent palaces, ancient ruins, and elegant fountains, visitors are rewarded with endless discoveries in this vibrant metropolis. Choose one of our post-cruise Vacation Stretchers—either 1-night or 2-nights at the 5-star Sina Bernini Bristol, Autograph Collection Hotel.
Traveler Information
- About Our Destination
Climate
The average maximum daytime temperature in Italy and Croatia in early July is in the mid 80s. The average night-time temperature is usually in the high 60s. Check www.weather.com for the most current weather.
Currency
The official currency in Italy and Croatia is the Euro. Check www.xe.com for current rates.
Languages
Italian, Croatian, English
- Before Your Trip
Celebrations: Birthdays, Anniversaries, Honeymoons and more
If you will have a birthday or other celebration during your vacation and have not already informed your Olivia Travel Consultant, please let us know as soon as possible, but no less than 90 days prior to the trip.
You can register at Olivia Honeymoon Wishes for your honeymoon, anniversary, or other special celebration; browse through the selections and let your friends know just how easy it is for them to purchase a gift for you.
Connect with Other Guests: Join the Facebook Group
If you'd like to chat with people who are going on the trip, join 2025 Italy & Croatia Luxury Cruise Facebook Group.
Passport and Visa
You will need a passport that is valid for six months past the date of the trip. If you are not a U.S. citizen, please check with both your country’s consulate and the consulates of the countries we will be visiting to make sure that you do not need an entry visa or other additional documentation.
U.S. citizens do NOT need to get a visa ahead of time. If you are not from the U.S., please check with your consulate for proper Visa requirements.
IMPORTANT
The European Union is introducing the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) sometime in mid-2025. ETIAS is designed as an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals traveling from 60 countries, including the United States and Canada. This system is being implemented to enhance security and streamline the entry process for travelers visiting the European Union.
Starting mid-2025, if you are planning to visit one of the 30 EU countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, you will be required to complete a digital application through the official ETIAS website or mobile application. This requirement will apply to travelers who do not currently need a visa for entry into these countries. While this might be an additional step in your travel preparations, it is designed to improve your overall experience by reducing waiting times and enhancing security measures. You can fill out your applications HERE once the ETIAS site goes live. Please be aware that most ETIAS applications will incur a processing fee of 7 Euros. It is free for people over the age of 70. These ETIAS are good for up to 3 years with unlimited entries.
Specific Needs:: Dietary, Medical and Mobility
If you have any medical, mobility needs, or specific dietary requirements that you have not already advised your travel consultant. Please advise us of this information as soon as possible but no less than 90 days prior to the trip.
Vacation StretchersWe will offer a pre in Venice and a post in Rome. More information will be available approximately 11 months prior to sailing.
Vaccinations
Please check with your local Public Health Department or personal physician regarding immunization requirements for all countries on your itinerary. You may also check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at: www.cdc.gov. Just click on “Traveler’s Health” followed by “Vaccinations.”
- Travel and Arrival
Air Travel
Airports
You will need to fly into Venice, Italy (VCE) and out of Rome, Italy (FCO). We encourage all guests to arrive at least one day early to avoid the stress of unexpected delays.
Flight Arrival and Departure Times
Embarkation begins at 1 pm. We depart Venice at 6 pm on Wednesday, July 2, 2025.
We encourage you to book your departure flight from Rome (FCO) after 12 pm on Thursday, July 10, 2025 to allow enough time to transfer to the airport after disembarking. The airport is approximately 1 hour from Civitavecchia.
Luggage Allowances
While there is no luggage limit on the cruise itself, airlines often restrict (or charge) for excess baggage. Because each airline is different, and the regulations change over time, please check with your airline for baggage allowances.
Transfers to the Ship
Airport transfers are not included. Group transfers from the airport to the ship can be purchased from Windstar. More information will be available when we get closer to the trip. Alternatively, you can take a water-taxi to the Venice Port from the airport. Transfers from the ship to the Rome Airport can be booked onboard.
- During Your Trip
Alcohol on Board
Guests are allowed to bring aboard two (2) bottles of wine or champagne per cabin. If consumed in public areas, there is a small corkage fee (approximately $15 USD + 18% gratuity). All additional alcohol (wine, beer, and/or hard alcohol) including alcohol purchased at ports of call, will be kept by ship’s staff and delivered to your cabin the last evening of the cruise.
Electricity
All staterooms are equipped with 110- and 220-volt electricity. These outlets are provided beside the dressing table mirror in your stateroom. Should you have several items to plug in at once, you may consider bringing a power strip.
Excursions
In each port we visit, an array of optional excursions are available. More information on these will be in your final documents.
Gratuities
Gratuities are included as a portion of your NDAs. Gratuities are provided for your cabin steward, dining room steward, bus person, maître d’, and other-behind-the-scenes crew members. Tips to your local guides on excursions are not included and are recommended. Below is a suggested guideline per person:
Local Guide: half day—$5 / full day—$10
Bus Driver: half day—$2-$4 / full day—$4-$6Internet and Email
Wifi plans are available onboard for your laptop or mobile devices. Pricing will be posted on board.
Laundry Services
Laundry and pressing service is available onboard. Dry cleaning is not available. Check onboard for pricing.
Medical Services
There is an onboard infirmary. Medical services entail an additional fee.
Money: On-Board Purchases
All purchases made on the ship will be charged to your onboard account, which you create when you first check in. All charges will be billed in US dollars. Please check with the front office onboard for further details.
Phone
Each cabin has a phone which you may use to call cabin-to-cabin, and to the various onboard facilities. There is an additional fee to use this phone to call outside of the ship; cost is available on board. We recommend using WhatsApp or FaceTime to make phone calls via wifi.
Smoking policy
All indoor areas onboard, including cabins and verandas, are non-smoking, including vaping. Outdoor public smoking areas will be posted.
Spa Services
The onboard WindSpa offers facials, massages, and many other services for an additional fee.
- After Your Trip
Disembarkation
Disembarkation will begin once the ship has cleared customs and can be as early as 7 am.
Transfers to the Airport
Transfers to the Rome International Airport (FCO) can be purchased on board.
Vacation Stretchers
Please check our Vacation Stretchers tab for more information. We will offer a pre in Venice and a post in Rome. More information will be available approximately 11 months prior to sailing.
Personalized Programs on This Trip
Refer a Friend
Refer a friend who is new to Olivia and you both win—your friend gets $50 off and you earn a $50 trip credit. Share the love, and earn unlimited future trip credits!
Find Out MoreGroups
Share the magic of Olivia together and enjoy some sweet savings along the way.
Find Out MoreSisters
Discover our Sisters program, where we warmly celebrate Olivians of color (partners and friends included) with special events and meaningful activities!
Find Out MoreSolo Travelers
Meet your Solos Coordinator at the Solos Welcome on day 1 and enjoy a week of meet-ups, designated dining, and reserved show seating! Travel alone, together!
Find Out MoreRoom Share
Let us help you find a travel companion, making it easy to share the cost of your room and enjoy the journey together!
Find Out MoreGEN-O
Gen-O (Next Generation Olivians) programming connects LGBTQ+ women in their 20s, 30s, as well as the young at heart, with dedicated meetups to foster fun and new friendships.
Find Out MoreOWLs
OWLs (Older, Wiser Lesbians) programming brings together Olivians aged 60+ for special meetups and activities for this vibrant group.
Find Out MoreOlivians in Uniform
Olivians in Uniform honors the strength, service, and camaraderie of those who have served or are currently in the armed forces with a special booking discount and exclusive meetups.
Find out MoreSpecific Needs
We want to make sure every guest has an amazing vacation experience. If you have a disability, dietary restriction, or other specific need, please fill out our questionnaire so our Specific Needs Coordinators can be a resource to you.
Find Out More
Still Have Questions?
Speak to a Travel Consultant by calling 800.631.6277 (Option 1) during business hours: Monday–Friday 8:30am -5:30pm PT or submit a contact request.